Das Leben der anderen: Character Notes: Wiesler

Characters

MfS Hauptmann Gerd Wiesler

Roles

• link between artists and the regime - the nature of his observation of Dreyman means he is immersed in their alternative culture, which makes him aware of his own shortcomings and become disillusioned with communism
  
• has a metamorphosis which shows how art can have a positive effect on anyone - how it can change characters and beliefs for the better
• lurking, observing, menacing presence symbolises the action of the Stasi - a shadow behind everyone's life

Portrayal

• always wears Stasi uniform - shows how dedicated he is, how he clings to the communist ideal, even when the regime has rejected him (after his betrayal) and finally collapsed
• monotonal colours show the social isolation in which he lives, e.g. he lives in a typical, empty Stasi flat - shows contrast between homely artistic atmosphere and cold communist existence
• lack of dialogue - unwilling (or forbidden) to express emotion, he is reserved and tight-lipped, reflecting the repression of the regime

Key Quotes

• "Bei Verhören arbeiten Sie mit den Feinden des…